Automotive history is filled with cars that just weren’t it. In every segment, there is a slew of cars that can be genuinely hated. Today we’re talking about sports cars, and one of the worst — at least in my opinion — is the third-generation Chevrolet Camaro.
Introduced in 1981 for the 1982 model year, this Camaro came to market right towards the end of the Malaise Era. This meant horrible things for performance. Base cars came with GM’s Iron Duke inline-4 putting out a measly 90 horsepower, while higher trims could be optioned with a 102-hp 2.8-liter V6. Those wanting a bit more power could choose from two 5.0-liter V8s: Z28s came with a carbureted version that made 145 hp, or you could option it with the Crossfire-injected V8 that made 165 hp. All engines could be had with a three-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, except the Crossfire V8 that required the automatic. By 1983 a higher output 190-hp 5.0-liter V8 was introduced, and it wasn’t until 1987 that the Camaro got the 5.7-liter V8 shared with the Corvette.
Even then performance left a lot to be desired, as it still needed nearly seven seconds to hit 60 mph. Luckily an I-ROC Z could do the same run in under six seconds by 1990. The car just didn’t feel like a Camaro should. My cousin had an ‘85 Z28, and even riding with him it just never felt great. It handled like a boat and the V8 made great noises but didn’t get you anywhere any faster.
Now we ask you, Jalopnik reader. Pull from your depth of automotive knowledge and tell us what you think is the worst sports car ever made. There’s no wrong answer. Let us known in the comments.
